Insects are the most diverse of all groups of organisms, with more species than any other. Their successful survival strategies can be traced right down to the molecular level. Insect biotechnology – also known as yellow biotechnology – uses biotechnological methods on insects (as well as on their molecules, cells, organs, and associated microbes) to develop products or services. The intent are new substances for applications in medicine, the sustainable protection of plants and industrial biotechnology. The Bioresources project group at the Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology (IME) has been established in Giessen as part of the LOEWE research centre; the aim is for it to eventually become a Fraunhofer Institute.